No, Joe Minoso’s Cruz Is Not Leaving Chicago Fire: Plot Update Explained

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Following the events of Chicago Fire’s Season 13 Episode 10, viewers have been questioning whether Joe Cruz, played by Joe Minoso, might be departing from the series. In the past, during Season 1, Cruz made a decision that many found unforgivable – letting gang leader Flaco Rodrique perish in a burning building. Although he carried this guilt for several years, he was unaware that his harsh actions were observed by someone. That person is his cousin and fellow gang member, Junior, who has resurfaced to pose a threat. The recent advancements in the Flaco case have ignited speculation about whether Cruz’s departure from the show could be imminent. Here’s what we know so far.

What happened to Joe Minoso’s Cruz in Chicago Fire Season 13 Episode 10?

The latest episode, entitled “Chaos Theory,” depicts Junior menacingly warning Cruz that he’ll expose himself as an eyewitness to Junior’s brutal past actions involving Flaco. In order to convince him, Junior persuades Cruz to serve as his bodyguard during a stash house robbery. Overpowered, Cruz reluctantly complies, but the robbery turns sour with a gunfight erupting, resulting in Junior’s demise. Frightened, Cruz rushes to Leon for medical attention and pleads him not to contact the authorities about the incident. This is due to the fact that confronting a gang could potentially endanger their loved ones’ lives.

Instead of that, Chief Pascal has become wary of Cruz’s actions and has conducted thorough investigations, uncovering details about the fire from Season 1. He calls upon Severide for further investigation and he successfully uncovers the truth. Nevertheless, Severide prevents Cruz from reporting to the police due to insufficient evidence. Later, a remorseful Cruz admits to his past crime involving Flaco. However, criminal charges are not filed against him since there was no concrete proof to support his confessions, but he is given a temporary suspension instead.

What does Joe Cruz’s suspension mean for his future on Chicago Fire?

Since Cruz’s suspension is only temporary, this might imply that he hasn’t permanently departed and will resume his duties once his penalty has been served.

Despite admitting to the misconduct, Cruz hasn’t been formally charged. Instead, he’s given a two-week suspension without pay for “unacceptable behavior.” Chief Pascal, feeling a suspension is appropriate at this time, is disappointed in Cruz due to his actions.

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2025-01-23 10:40